WORD OF THE DAY - Monday 16 August 21 from Mykolayiv, Ukraine

The Nikolaev Church of Christ met for worship yesterday and we were blessed to have our faithful few in attendance. Everyone was very happy that Galina was back with us, not only to help translate my message, but they missed her kindness and warm hugs.

At the end of our worship, our brother Stepan led us in a closing prayer. We continue to be amazed at the way his faith and understanding of God's word continue to grow. Luda blessed us again by providing some cool juice for us to drink together during our period of fellowship after the worship. We use this time not only to become better acquainted, but to answer questions about the Bible that may come up and to strategize on how to reach more lost souls with the saving message of the gospel of Christ. We received the most joyful news yesterday from Marietta, Georgia that 12 year old grandson William White confessed his faith in Jesus Christ and was baptized into Christ. Now, I understand why he recently wrote me, "Grandfather, when are you coming home?" Thank you for your prayers as we labor in this vineyard of the Lord here in Ukraine.

Nikolai led the congregation during the celebration of the Lord's Supper. He is only able to be with us on some Sunday's due to his job that takes him to far regions of Ukraine. He always provides valuable encouragement to everyone when he is in town.

It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. (Titus 2:12 NIV)

научающая нас, чтобы мы, отвергнув нечестие и мирские похоти, целомудренно, праведно и благочестиво жили в нынешнем веке. ( К Титу 2:12 Russian)

і навчає нас, щоб ми, відцуравшись безбожности та світських пожадливостей, жили помірковано та праведно, і побожно в теперішнім віці. (Тит 2:12 Ukrainian)

Most High God, our Dear Father in Heaven ~ Thank you for the rich outpouring of your grace and love upon us on this new day as we do our best to walk in the path that Jesus revealed to us. Give us wisdom and strength so that we will be able to confront the abundance of evil that is constantly attempting to lure believers away from your grace and mercy. Help us to be prepared for that regal and glorious epiphany of our King who successfully said NO to Satan’s temptations. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.